Jonathan’s marathon effort for Chai Cancer

Jonathan Barr was one of more than 50,000 runners who took part in this year’s New York City Marathon as he raised more than £3,000 for Chai Cancer Care.

Running in memory of his mother, Val Barr, Finchley-based Jonathan completed the 26.2 miles in 05:05:24.He said: “Little did I know that when I applied to enter the race, my mum would have passed away and that in the midst of her five-and-a-half month fight against her breast cancer re-occurrence, my own testicular cancer would shockingly and unexpectedly re-occur. Chai Cancer Care have been there for me for the last 18 months, they supported and visited mum during her illness and also continue to support our family when we need them.”

Speaking after completing the marathon, he said: “It was the most physically and emotionally challenging marathon of my life. By mile 11 I had run out of steam and questioned if I could go on but somehow I did, finishing with a mix of running and walking, as well as a wide range of emotions all the way through.”